Nike Announces Major Layoffs Amid Cost-Cutting Measures
The sportswear giant plans to eliminate 2% of its global workforce, over 1,600 jobs, as part of a broad restructuring to address weaker consumer demand.
- Nike CEO John Donahoe takes responsibility for the company's underperformance, attributing the layoffs to a need to reignite growth.
- The layoffs will occur in two phases, with the first round starting immediately and the second by the end of May.
- Nike's $2 billion cost-cutting plan over the next three years includes streamlining the organization and investing in growth areas like running, women's apparel, and the Jordan brand.
- Despite the layoffs, the overall labor market remains strong, with the unemployment rate steady and job additions in January far exceeding expectations.
- Nike faces stiff competition from emerging brands and a cautious consumer spending environment, prompting a shift in strategy to focus on innovation and efficiency.